News
Ben Coate
Dec 20, 2024
‘Be My Usual Self’ – Masaaki Noiri Plans To Back Up The Hype At ONE Friday Fights 92
Decorated Japanese striker Masaaki Noiri is determined to live up to the hype surrounding him in his sophomore appearance in the world’s largest martial arts organization.
On December 20 at ONE Friday Fights 92: Sitthichai vs. Shadow, the 31-year-old superstar will face off against China’s “Spirit Dragon” Liu Mengyang in a must-watch featherweight kickboxing bout at the legendary Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
A former two-division K-1 Champion, Noiri represents one of ONE’s biggest free-agent signings in recent memory and arrived at the organization with high expectations.
However, in his promotional debut in June at ONE 167, he suffered a hard-fought decision loss against ultra-accomplished Thai legend and current #3-ranked featherweight kickboxing contender Sitthichai.
Noiri told onefc.com that he didn’t perform at his best against “Killer Kid” but expects to turn things around and show his full potential against Liu.
“In my last fight, for better or worse, I was a bit too excited, but this time, [my trainer] says that if I can be my usual self, things will go well.”
The Team Vasileus representative admitted that he was caught up in the emotions and thrills of competing on ONE’s massive global platform – especially at one of the year’s biggest shows against an icon of the striking arts.
Noiri mentioned that he made the critical mistake of allowing Sitthichai to dictate the terms of engagement at ONE 167.
“It was my first time on a stage I’d always dreamed of. Plus, it was at such a big event. And my opponent was a ranked fighter, Sitthichai. My hunger and my eagerness were lacking a bit, and I ended up fighting at my opponent’s pace.”
Given the disappointing outcome of his first appearance, Noiri has been more motivated than ever to elevate his already elite striking game in recent months.
Now that he’s experienced the level of competition in ONE and understands what it’s like to perform under the brightest lights in martial arts, he knows he’ll need to put in extra work to prove he belongs among the best of the best.
He is confident that his development will be on full display at ONE Friday Fights 92.
“Even during training, I often hear from everyone at the gym and the trainers that I’ve ‘improved,’ so I think not just myself, but those around me, can feel the difference.”
Noiri Wants Nothing But A Knockout Against Liu
When Masaaki Noiri battles Liu Mengyang, he aims to achieve more than just a return to the win column.
He is focused on securing a knockout this Friday:
“I’m really hungry for the win this time. Of course, I intend to finish him, and I’m not thinking of anything but a KO. Above all, I plan to go for the win, no matter the situation.”
For his part, “Spirit Dragon” will be making his promotional debut at ONE Friday Fights 92.
Despite not having seen him compete on the global stage, Noiri has researched his opponent and described him as a dangerous striker with talents in all areas.
“He has that typical Chinese fighter’s style – he’s a real all-arounder who can do everything, and I have the impression he’s quite durable. How to beat and knock out such a fighter – that’s my theme for this fight.”
